Welsh traders can now sign up for future proof funding

Welsh traders are being urged to sign up for the new future proofing fund now the application window is now open.

Applications can be made until June 6 or until the total value of submitted applications exceeds the budget allocation, so businesses are being urged to sign up sooner rather than later.

Earlier in March, Bira and other organisations met with Welsh Government officials to learn about the new Wales Future Proofing Fund, which offers grants of £5,000 to £10,000 to eligible micro, small and medium-sized businesses in the retail, hospitality and leisure sectors. The grants can be used to invest in renewable energy technology, carry out improvements to business premises, and upgrade systems or machinery to reduce energy use.

To be eligible for the funding, businesses must:

• Be located in Wales and employ people in Wales
• Employ between 1 and 249 people
• Have been trading since before 1st April 2023
• Operate from a property with a rateable value between £6,001 and £51,000
• Either own or are leasing the business premises on a minimum 3-year lease that extends beyond 1st April 2026

For more details, visit this link Future proofing fund | Business Wales (gov.wales)

Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira said: "This is an excellent opportunity for our Welsh members to access funding that can help them reduce their running costs and become more energy-efficient. We strongly urge all eligible members to attend these webinars and explore the possibilities offered by the Future Proofing Fund."